Timothy O'Donnell: How To Achieve Triathlon Success

Training + Balance = Triathlon Success

Life Outside of Triathlon Training

So, what does a triathlete do outside of training, recovering from training and training some more? While Rinny and I both share a passion and love for all things triathlon, we also take time to unwind and escape from shop talk.

Just as important as training, finding balance between the sport and your family, friends and outside interests will help refuel your mind and body.

Here’s a look at what I like to do in my downtime:

I enjoy cooking and a good glass of wine; especially California Cabernets. I’d love to live in Napa at some point in my life (after I retire from racing) — it’s a beautiful place. Outside of Napa, I love the three Bs: Bordeauxs, Brunellos and Barolos.

As far as cooking, Rinny and I try to keep it simple. Our go-to meal is filet mignon on the grill with some sort of green vegetables, sweet potato fries and a good bottle of Cabernet.

I’m an aspiring drummer and vinyl nerd. I love music and even though I’m not musically inclined by any means, I do have a set of V-drums that Rinny got me. I try to bang around on them as much as I can. When I’m not banging on the drums, I enjoy listening to records on vinyl and checking out local record stores here in Boulder to add to my collection.

Whatever it is that you enjoy doing outside of training, make time in your final weeks of training to find your balance and enjoy the race experience with friends and family.

Next time, I’ll be writing to you from Kona where I’ll share an on-the-ground update, my pre-race routine, pre-race and race day meals, and of course I’ll share tips for a final gear check.